At 1913 hours of November 12, 2019 Cowlitz 911 received a report of a shooting at a residence in the 1400 block of S. 4th Ave, Kelso.  Deputies responded to the scene and contacted a male resident who had been shot by an unknown suspect.  The suspect was described as a white male, about 5'5" tall, medium build with frizzy gray hair.  The suspect was also described as having a beard and was wearing dark clothing.  Deputies, with assistance from surrounding police agencies, utilized a K-9 and a drone to search the area but were unable to locate the suspect. 

The victim suffered life threatening injuries and was transported for medical treatment.

This is an active investigation.  Detective Riley McNeal will be the lead investigator.  The Sheriff's Office is requesting anyone with information or video evidence related to this case contact our office at 360-577-3092.

November 13, 2019 update -

The victim in this investigation is Rick D. Huckaby, age 69, of Kelso.  He remains hospitalized at this time.  Mr. Huckaby's family has requested to not have further contact with the media at this time.

November 22, 2019

The Cowlitz County Sheriff's Office has been advised of the passing of Rick D. Huckaby which occurred the evening of November 22nd, 2019. Mr. Huckaby had been receiving ongoing treatment at a Vancouver Hospital since the November 12th incident in which he was shot multiple times in his own home. The investigation will continue with a post mortem examination by the Clark County Medical Examiners Office. Anyone with information concerning this case is encouraged to contact the Cowlitz County Sheriif's Office at (360) 577-3092.

Sheriff Brad Thurman 

11-23-2019 Correction

Mr. Huckaby had been transferred to a Portland area hospital prior to his passing on 11-22-2019. An autopsy was conducted on Saturday 11-23-2019 by the Multnomah County Medical Examiner. A Cowlitz County Sheriff’s Office Detective was in attendance to further the investigation. The Sheriff’s Office would like to be contacted by anyone who may have information pertaining to the case. Contact Det. Riley McNeal or Sgt. Ryan Cruser at (360) 577-3092.

Sheriff Brad Thurman